Real Madrid moved within a point of Barcelona at the top of LaLiga after beating Sevilla 2–0 at the Santiago Bernabéu, keeping the title race tight and turning up the pressure on their arch rivals.
Madrid came into the match needing a strong response after losing their last two home games, but while the result was convincing, the performance wasn’t always smooth. Sevilla, who have already shown this season they can trouble the league’s biggest sides, played with confidence and created enough chances to keep the contest tense for long periods.
Bellingham breaks the deadlock
The breakthrough arrived late in the first half. Jude Bellingham rose well and powered a header into the net to give Madrid a 1–0 lead heading into the interval.
That goal settled the stadium and gave Madrid a platform, but it didn’t end Sevilla’s threat. The visitors continued to ask questions, and Madrid also had moments where they could have doubled the lead sooner, only for chances to go begging.
Red card turns the game
A major turning point came when Sevilla defender Marcao was dismissed for a second bookable offence. Down to 10 men, Sevilla’s task became far more difficult, and Madrid were able to manage the game with more control.
Mbappé makes it safe
Even so, Madrid needed a late second goal to fully calm any nerves. Kylian Mbappé stepped up to take a late penalty and converted confidently to make it 2–0 and ensure the points stayed in the capital.
What it means
The win keeps Real Madrid right on Barcelona’s heels in the title race, while Sevilla will feel frustrated that a disciplined performance was ultimately undone by fine margins and the red card.
